Let’s be clear: retirement isn’t what it used to be. Today’s retirees are healthier, more connected, and more determined to keep contributing to the world around them. For many in Bergen County, retirement doesn’t mean slowing down—it means finally having the time to do what matters most. That’s exactly the spirit behind the mybergen.com Next Chapter content series, and it’s the driving force behind Redefining Retirement, a volunteer matching program from Bergen Volunteers.
Seniors Are Volunteering Now More Than Ever
A growing body of research shows that older adults are not only staying active, they’re also leading the charge when it comes to giving back. According to a 2024 report from the Corporation for National and Community Service, nearly 30% of adults over age 60 in the U.S. engage in formal volunteer work each year, contributing over 2 billion hours of service. Closer to home, the New Jersey Department of Human Services has reported a consistent uptick in volunteerism among older residents over the last five years, with Bergen County among the most active counties in the state.
Why the rise? Experts point to a mix of factors: longer life expectancy, a stronger emphasis on purpose-driven living, and the flexibility that retirement brings. But there’s also something less tangible at work—an understanding that experience matters, and that communities thrive when older adults are empowered to share their skills.
As The Next Chapter readers know, being “older” today often means being more capable, curious, and committed than ever. Whether you’re a retired teacher, executive, healthcare worker, or full-time parent, your lived experience is a valuable asset—and Bergen County needs it.
What Is the Redefining Retirement Program?
Enter Redefining Retirement, a volunteer matching program run by Bergen Volunteers that connects retirees with meaningful roles in the nonprofit world. Whether you’re interested in supporting veterans, mentoring children, assisting in food pantries, or working in environmental conservation, this program is designed to help you find your fit.
The process is straightforward. First, you fill out an Interest Form that outlines your background, passions, and preferred type of volunteer work—whether that’s administrative, hands-on, remote, or even a board position. From there, a Redefining Retirement Liaison will personally contact you to learn more and discuss potential matches with one of Bergen Volunteers’ many nonprofit partners. The liaison even makes the introduction on your behalf to ensure the opportunity is a good mutual fit.
Volunteer Roles Designed With You in Mind
One of the standout features of this program is its flexibility. Opportunities are available both in-person and virtually, making it easy to stay involved no matter your schedule or mobility. Plus, the program respects your time and interests—whether you’re looking to roll up your sleeves or lend your expertise from behind the scenes.
Areas of interest include:
-
Veterans and military families
-
Seniors and aging services
-
Food insecurity
-
Women’s issues
-
Children and youth
-
Nature and conservation
-
Public health
-
Nonprofit board service
No matter your passion, Redefining Retirement can help you turn it into meaningful action.
Make the Next Chapter Count
If you’re a Bergen County resident entering retirement—or already there—and you’re not ready to stop making a difference, this is your moment. You can learn more and fill out the interest form at bergenvolunteers.org or email [email protected] to connect with a liaison. You can also call 201-489-9454, ext. 206 for more information.
This is what The Next Chapter is all about—living with intention, using your voice, and staying connected. As Bergen Volunteers says, “Let’s create meaningful action, together.”
Redefining Retirement by Bergen Volunteers
50 Eisenhower Drive, Paramus, NJ 07652
201-489-9454 | [email protected]
You’ll find more opportunities, stories, and resources for Bergen County’s 60+ crowd at The Next Chapter section on mybergen.com.
